Local
Hays County draft would tighten water and flood safeguards for development
Hays County commissioners are reviewing proposed development rules focused on water supplies, groundwater quality, drainage and environmental protection. A public hearing is scheduled for Oct. 27, with possible adoption afterward.
SAN MARCOS, Texas — Hays County is considering new development requirements intended to protect water resources and reduce flood risks as the fast-growing area faces pressure on its land and infrastructure.
County officials presented a draft of revised development regulations at the Commissioners Court meeting Tuesday, Oct. 13. The proposal addresses water availability, groundwater quality, floodplain management, drainage and other environmental protections. It would also require public notice for development agreements that go before Commissioners Court.
Commissioner Walt Smith said the county wants developers to demonstrate that reliable long-term water and wastewater services will be available before projects move forward. He described a proposed conservation section as potentially the first fully developed conservation title in a Texas county’s development regulations, and said he hopes it could become a model elsewhere in the state.
The rules matter to residents and environmental advocates concerned that development could strain groundwater and affect local waterways. San Marcos resident Richard said the community depends on the river and urged county leaders to act, describing water protection as a public-health issue.
Dianne Wassenich, former executive director of the San Marcos River Foundation, warned that groundwater could become insufficient if it is depleted too quickly, particularly during drought. The region is experiencing drought conditions, she said.
The draft also proposes changes to drainage and flood reviews for development. County officials have received public feedback about preventing developers from using loopholes to avoid lot-size and environmental requirements, according to the county.
Bobby Levinski, a senior staff attorney with the Save Our Springs Alliance, said the proposal’s references to groundwater and waterways are important, but that the final wording will determine how much protection the rules provide. He urged commissioners not to rush the approval process and said the final draft should reflect community input.
The county has held open houses and community meetings as it revises the regulations. A public hearing on the proposed final draft is scheduled for 11 a.m. Tuesday, Oct. 27, during Commissioners Court. Commissioners could consider adopting the rules after the hearing; no adoption decision had been made as of Oct. 14.